Oklahoma FB Aaron Ripkowski ejected for targeting on block (GIF)

Saturday’s first targeting ejection came from an offensive player.

Oklahoma FB Aaron Ripkowski was called for targeting against Kansas State DE Ryan Mueller when he delivered a block to Mueller’s head by lowering the crown of his helmet.

Targeting is not limited to defensive players. The rule states that “no player shall target and initiate contact to the head or neck area of a defenseless opponent with the helmet, forearm, fist, elbow or shoulder. When in question, it is a foul.” There was no disputing the call on Ripkowski. Thankfully, Mueller got up immediately from the hit.

OU QB Trevor Knight was injured on the play as well. As Knight dove to the ground, he was hit just after he was down and his left arm got pinched between himself and the ground. After briefly going to the locker room, Knight returned to the field and then to the game on Oklahoma’s next offensive possession. He was replaced after the injury by Cody Thomas. OU finished the drive that Knight was hurt on with a touchdown.